Foal nutrition starts long before they take their first wobbly steps—and getting it right can set the stage for a lifetime of soundness, growth, and success. In this blog, I break down the key stages of feeding foals (and their mums), common mistakes to avoid, and what you really need to know to support healthy development. Whether you're raising a future athlete or a beloved paddock pony, this is one area you don’t want to guess your way through.

The Hidden Balancing Act

When it comes to equine nutrition, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of supplements and feeding trends. But at the core of every healthy horse’s diet lies a crucial mineral duo: calcium and phosphorus. While horse owners often focus on protein percentages and energy levels, the calcium-phosphorus balance can quietly make or break your horse’s health.

The truth is, it’s not just about feeding enough of these minerals—it’s about feeding them in the right ratio. This ratio is fundamental for bone health, growth, and overall performance, yet it’s commonly overlooked.

When it comes to equine health, few topics are as complex and concerning as the connection between hindgut acidosis and laminitis. As someone who frequently encounters laminitis-related concerns from my clients, I find this to be a particularly pressing issue in horse care. Recently, I came across an article titled "All You Need to Know About Acidosis Laminitis" (October 26, 2023), which dives deep into the intricate relationships between diet, gut health, and laminitis. This blog breaks down the key points of the article and explores how its insights can help horse owners better manage and prevent these potentially life-threatening conditions.

Glutamine, an amino acid found abundantly in the body, plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and performance. In horses, it is categorised as a "conditionally essential" amino acid, meaning its demand may increase during stress, illness, or intense exercise. Let’s explore what glutamine does in a horse’s body, its benefits, and when supplementation might be beneficial.

Deep down, I think I always knew I had a passion for equine nutrition. I’d find myself reading the back of feed bags, thinking, “I hope I’m getting this right… but what if I’m not?” It was overwhelming sometimes. With so many opinions and advice from riders, vets, and professionals in the equine space, it felt impossible to know what was truly correct. How could all this conflicting advice coexist if they were all supposed to be right?

The Benefits of Bovine Colostrum for Equine Health and Performance

Bovine colostrum, a nutrient-dense fluid produced by cows shortly after giving birth, is gaining recognition for its potential benefits in equine care and performance. The unique bioactive compounds in bovine colostrum have shown promise in enhancing immune function, reducing inflammation, and supporting recovery in horses. Here, I review findings from recent studies that highlight how bovine colostrum can support various aspects of equine health and performance.

From helping manage skin sensitivities to promoting a radiant coat, bovine colostrum offers a natural solution that supports equine skin and coat health at its foundation. As it enhances immune function, aids in skin repair, and improves digestion, this nutrient-dense supplement can become a valuable part of your horse’s wellness routine. If you’re looking to support your horse’s skin and coat from the inside out, bovine colostrum might just be the natural answer you've been searching for.